Life is fleeting, and sometimes it seems that there is no end to worries. Every small thing becomes big and we somehow put off feeling happy until some later date … or until we achieve some future accomplishment. But this is not life. This is simply a cycle of suffering. In those fruitless moments of worry, we are out of touch with our blessings and we are out of the moment.

One of my favorite Zen questions is, “When you can do nothing, what can you do?” Today, the answer that came to me was another Zen saying, “Chop wood, carry water.”

In the face of extreme difficulty and adversity, we must go on living. If we can find it within ourselves to be grateful for our blessings, we find contentment. If we are able to fall in love with our challenges and choose peace, we find joy.

I always believe that peace is only a decision away. And joy only requires a shift in our perception and attitude. When we can do nothing, all that we must do is continue to chop wood and carry water.

I wish you love, peace, joy, contentment, and gratitude for all that is and for all that is not. May you have deep appreciation for each day and love for each challenge. I truly believe that God never gives us more than we can handle. Through our example of perseverance, we unknowingly inspire others.